Epic Games Store VP Steven Allison didn't pull any punches, admitting in a recent interview that the platform's launcher "sucks" and needs a significant overhaul.
This candid confession, reported by Eurogamer, signals a long-overdue shift in focus from exclusive game acquisition to improving the actual player experience on the PC storefront.
From Exclusives to Experience
For years, the Epic Games Store has been known for its aggressive strategy of securing timed exclusives, often with significant financial backing from Epic Games. While this brought a steady stream of high-profile titles to the platform, it also led to a fragmented PC gaming landscape and a launcher that many users found clunky and feature-poor. Allison acknowledges this history, stating that "we have a lot of things" to fix, particularly concerning the user interface and overall functionality of the launcher.
The VP specifically highlighted upcoming updates planned for 2026, with a strong emphasis on social features. This is a massive departure from the store's previous focus, which largely prioritized game delivery and sales. By investing in social connectivity, Epic is clearly aiming to foster a more engaged community around its platform, a move that could significantly bolster long-term user retention.
What Does 'Sucks' Really Mean?
Allison's blunt assessment of the launcher's current state is likely resonating with a large segment of PC gamers. The Epic Games Store has long been criticized for its lack of features compared to competitors like Steam. Basic functionalities such as user reviews, robust friend lists, and integrated community hubs have been conspicuously absent or underdeveloped. The admission suggests that Epic is finally ready to address these shortcomings head-on.
The planned 2026 social features are expected to include things like improved friend lists, chat functionalities, and potentially even community groups or events. These are the building blocks of any successful digital storefront, and their inclusion marks a significant maturation of the Epic Games Store's strategy. It's a move that signals a commitment to not just selling games, but to building a destination where players want to spend their time.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the candid admission and promising plans, the path forward for the Epic Games Store is not without its challenges. Rebuilding user trust after years of a perceived neglect of core features will be a significant undertaking. Furthermore, the PC gaming market is fiercely competitive, with established players like Steam holding a dominant market share.
However, Epic Games has proven its ability to disrupt established markets. The company's deep pockets and willingness to innovate, as demonstrated with the Unreal Engine and Fortnite, suggest they have the resources and the vision to execute this ambitious plan. The focus on social features could be the differentiator Epic needs to truly compete and carve out a larger slice of the PC gaming pie. This isn't just about fixing a launcher; it's about evolving the Epic Games Store into a true gaming ecosystem. The success of these 2026 updates will likely determine whether Epic can finally move beyond its reputation for aggressive exclusives and establish itself as a user-centric platform.